wesleydnunder, what kind of sponge do you have over the intake? I was considering getting the Eheim one. Not sure if it's really necessary, though. I am probably just going to run the media how they recommend it at first. Yes I plan to have it under the stand.
I use an aquaclear sponge that I roughly shaped with scissors. I originally did this to act as mechanical filter to trap particulates but found that it also kept the mts and most of the shrimp out of the canisters as well.
When you set up your 2217, I advise that you keep the section of hose between the top filter fitting and the first quick-connect at least 24" long. That way you can more easily fill the filter and purge air out when you bring it back into service after cleaning. Here's how.
The output from the filter to the spray bar is the thinner hose and exits the top of the filter. The intake hose from the aquarium to the filter is the bigger hose and enters the filter at the bottom. When I get ready to take the filter offline for cleaning I do the following:
1. Unplug the filter from the wall receptacle
2. Close both valves on each hose
3. Disconnect the quick-connects
4. Remove the filter from under the stand
5. Release the metal latches to release the top section of the filter from the body
6. Open the valve on the top 24" section of hose that is still attached to the filter - this will more easily allow you to remove the top section (motor housing)
After cleaning I do the following to bring the filter back into service:
1. Replace the media inside, make sure the O-ring is clean, put the top back on making sure to align the latches with the indents, re-engage the latches.
2. Place the filter back under the stand and reconnect the quick-connect on the intake hose- at this point both valves on the intake hose should be closed
3. Place the end of the return hose section attached to the top of the filter over a 5 gallon bucket - the valve on this hose section should be open so it will drain into the bucket
4. Open both valves on the intake hose
5. The filter should begin filling from the bottom and air should be exiting the section of return hose that's in the 5 gallon bucket
6. When the filter is full water and air will begin entering the bucket - give the filter a little shake to release any air that's trapped in the media and impellor housing
7. After all air has been purged and only water is coming out of the hose, close the valve on the return hose section and reconnect to the rest of the return hose with the return hose quick-connect
8. Open both valves on the return hose and ensure that both valves on the intake hose are open as well
9. Plug the filter back in and ensure that water is exiting the spray bar
Mark
